Top 5 Supplements for Endometriosis - By Dr. Meghan van Drimmelen, ND
Endometriosis is a gynaecological condition that affects approximately one in ten women of reproductive age. This disorder occurs when endometrial tissue that typically grows inside the uterus appears in other parts of the body. This misplaced tissue most commonly grows on the fallopian tubes, ovaries, bladder, intestines, and the ligaments and muscles of the pelvis. Since this tissue acts like it would inside the uterus, it thickens, breaks down, and bleeds with each menstrual cycle, leading to inflammation, scarring, and pelvic pain. It is also important to note that in women with endometriosis, it is estimated that 30-50% of cases will have fertility concerns (1) . In this article, I will review the causes and risk factors of endometriosis, as well as the top 5 supplements I recommend in my naturopathic practice for endometriosis management.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of endometriosis is still unknown, but various theories suggest retrograde menstruation, immune dysfunction, genetic factors, and environmental toxins as potential contributors. The risk of developing endometriosis is higher in women who have a family history of the condition, started their periods early, have heavy menstrual bleeding, shorter menstrual cycles (<27 days) or have a low body mass index (2).
Top 5 Naturopath Approved Supplements for Endometriosis
N-Acetylcysteine (NAC)
NAC is an amino acid with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. In an observational cohort study that was designed to look at the effects of NAC on the progression of endometriomas (ovarian cysts related to endometriosis), it was found that the NAC reduced the size of endometriomas in comparison to the control group. They also found that the NAC treated group had reduced pain, and a higher number of pregnancies in comparison to the untreated group (3).
Resveratrol
Resveratrol is a potent antioxidant commonly found in red wine, grapes, and berries. Research shows that resveratrol can inhibit the proliferation and vascularization of endometrial implants and reduce the levels of inflammation of affected tissues, and by doing so may prevent the progression of disease (4). In women trying to conceive, resveratrol’s fertility benefits lie with its ability to protect the ovaries and eggs from oxidative stress. However, research has also shown that resveratrol may negatively impact embryo implantation, so supplementation is only recommended in the first half of the menstrual cycle for those trying to conceive (5).
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is an important regulator in the gene expression and inflammatory pathways related to endometriosis. Research studies have found an association between vitamin D deficiency and an increased risk of endometriosis, while other research has shown that an increased dietary intake of vitamin D may prevent endometriosis. Smaller scale clinical trials looking at the effect of vitamin D supplementation on reducing pelvic pain in women with endometriosis have been promising (6).
Probiotics
Probiotics are healthy bacteria that help maintain gut and genitourinary health and modulate the immune system. Studies suggest that women with endometriosis may have an imbalance of gut and genitourinary bacteria, which can lead to inflammation and other gastrointestinal symptoms. A clinical trial of women with endometriosis found that taking probiotics reduced systemic inflammation and relieved pain symptoms (7).
Melatonin
Melatonin is a hormone that plays a vital role in regulating sleep-wake cycles and works as an anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and immunoregulatory agent. A study conducted on women with endometriosis found that melatonin significantly reduced daily pain scores, dysmenorrhea, dysuria, and dyschezia. Additionally, melatonin improved sleep quality, reduced the need for analgesic medications, and reduced brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, suggesting both analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects on endometriosis (8).
Conclusion
Endometriosis is a painful and complex condition that can be challenging to manage. While there is no known cure for endometriosis, there are several natural supplements that can help alleviate its symptoms and improve quality of life. Among the top five supplements for endometriosis, NAC, resveratrol, vitamin D, probiotics, and melatonin have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and immunoregulatory effects that can aid in endometriosis management. Before starting any supplement regimen, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure that these supplements are safe for you and do not interact with your existing medications. If you are interested in exploring whether natural supplementation would be appropriate for you, please don’t hesitate to contact Juniper Family Health.
In health and happiness,
Dr. Meghan van Drimmelen, ND
References:
1) Hornstein M. etal. Endometriosis: Treatment of Infertility in Females. Uptodate.
2) Schenken R. Endometriosis: Pathogenesis, Epidemiology and Clinical Impact. Uptodate.
5) Preconception resveratrol intake against infertility: Friend or foe?